Beetroot soup with sour cream

Beetroot soup with sour cream is a classic dish, full of color and flavor, that perfectly combines simple ingredients with a rich aroma, transforming an ordinary meal into a remarkable culinary experience. This recipe is not only nourishing but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted, even for those observing a fast. Let's embark on our gastronomic journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 1 large beetroot (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 10-11 large potatoes (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 red bell pepper (or green, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable powder (or a vegetable stock cube)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 200 g sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- 1 liter of borscht (or more, depending on desired acidity)

Step by step

1. Preparing the beetroot: Start by boiling the beetroot. Place the beetroot in a pot with cold water and let it boil for 30-40 minutes until tender. Once ready, remove the beetroot from the water, allow it to cool slightly, and peel it. Use a large grater to grate it. This will help the beetroot integrate better into the soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables: In a large pot, add water, filling it about three-quarters full. Then, finely chop the onion and bell pepper and add them to the pot. Let them boil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes to release their flavors.

3. Adding the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes of about 2 cm. Add them to the pot along with the vegetable powder. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes until they are almost cooked.

4. Incorporating the beetroot: Meanwhile, in a pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Add the grated beetroot and sauté for 5 minutes. This step will intensify the flavor of the beetroot and enhance the soup's taste. Afterward, add the beetroot to the pot with the soup.

5. Finalizing the soup: Once the potatoes are halfway cooked, add the borscht to the pot. If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add more borscht. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

6. Serving: When the soup is ready, add the sour cream and mix well. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness and flavor. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions

Beetroot soup is served hot, and for added flavor, you can add a few slices of lemon or even toasted bread croutons. It pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or a slice of homemade bread. It also goes wonderfully with a glass of white wine or herbal tea.

Variations and tips

- For a vegan version, you can omit the sour cream or replace it with a plant-based yogurt.
- If you desire a spicier soup, you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- To enhance its consistency, you can add beans or peas.

Nutritional benefits

Beetroot soup is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Beetroot is known for its beneficial effects on heart health and the circulatory system due to its nitrate content, which helps dilate blood vessels.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pickled beetroot?
- While pickled beetroot can add an interesting taste, it is recommended to use fresh beetroot to preserve the texture and flavor of the soup.

2. How long does the soup last?
- Beetroot soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
- Yes, beetroot soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

4. What other recipes can I try with beetroot?
- You can try beetroot salads, beetroot spread on toast, or even desserts like beetroot brownies to add moisture and extra nutrients.

We hope this recipe inspires you to bring a splash of color and health into your kitchen! Beetroot soup with sour cream is not only delicious but also a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and comforting meal. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: a larger beetroot an onion parsley 10,11 large potatoes a red pepper but green is also good vegetable powder pepper sour cream oil borscht